Multi-Generational Living

Moore Liberty Buildings Helps Families Stay Connected with ADUs

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy Moore Liberty Building

Every week, Chad and Amanda Moore of Moore Liberty Buildings receive calls from people facing similar challenges: helping adult children who can’t yet afford their own home, caring for aging parents, and keeping family members close without the cost of living on different properties. The Moores’ solution—helping families stay connected by building accessory dwelling units (ADUs): secondary living spaces built on the same property. “People are looking for extra, affordable space where their family can stay together,” Chad says. “We’re very family-oriented ourselves, so we love helping people create space for their family.” Amanda adds, “We hear it every week: families want to bring everyone together on the same property. They’re looking for ways to make that possible without breaking the bank.”

Across the country, multi-generational living is on the rise, with families turning to ADUs as a practical way to keep loved ones close. According to Global Growth Insights, nearly 49 percent of U.S. homeowners are exploring ADU construction for rental income or to accommodate aging family members. Similarly, barndominiums, or barndos—metal-clad homes that blend barn aesthetics with residential comfort—saw an 8 percent increase in interest from 2023 to 2024, highlighting their appeal as affordable, customizable living spaces.

A DETAILED GUIDE TO HELP EVALUATE WHETHER AN A.D.U. OR A BARNDO IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Budget and Cost Considerations

 COST VS. SIZE: Smaller spaces can be more expensive per square foot due to plumbing and utility placement. Studios (350–400 sq. ft.) start around $80,000, while full barndos may cost more than $300,000. Larger layouts with open spaces can be more cost-effective per square foot. Amanda notes, “Some families are surprised that smaller doesn’t always mean cheaper—plumbing and utilities compress costs in tiny layouts.”

 INTERIOR LAYOUT: Kitchens and bathrooms drive costs more than the number of bedrooms. One-bedroom units typically range 450–800 sq. ft., two-bedroom, two-bath units 800–1,200 sq. ft.

 FINANCING OPTIONS: Explore home improvement loans, home equity lines of credit, or construction loans. Credit unions and rural/ agricultural lenders often provide favorable terms.

 PROPERTY TAXES: Adding an ADU can increase your tax assessment, so include this in your financial planning.

Property and Site Readiness

 UTILITIES: Ensure your property can handle extra plumbing, electricity, and septic needs. Upgrades may be necessary, which can significantly affect costs.

 ACCESS AND LANDSCAPING: Consider driveways, pathways, and decks connecting structures. Will existing landscaping need updates? “Even small changes—a new path or deck—can affect cost and timeline,” Amanda explains.

 ZONING AND PERMITS: Verify city limits, HOA rules, setback requirements, and local permitting guidelines. Moore Liberty Buildings can handle the permit process from start to finish.

Design, Layout, and Aesthetics

 SPACE PLANNING: Determine how many bedrooms and bathrooms are needed for your family’s lifestyle.

 SIZE VS. FUNCTIONALITY: A compact studio may be efficient but can cost more per square foot than a larger unit.

 VISUAL APPEAL: Families want buildings that look beautiful while remaining practical and within budget. Balancing size, aesthetics, and affordability is key.

Family Needs and Lifestyle

 WHO WILL LIVE THERE: Consider whether the space is for aging parents, adult children, or other loved ones you wish to accommodate. Purpose informs layout, size, and features.

 DIY VS. TURNKEY: Skilled homeowners may handle carpentry, electrical, or plumbing, while others prefer a fully finished building. Moore Liberty Buildings accommodates all levels of involvement.

 TIMELINE: Permitting, financing, and construction typically take four to six months—plan accordingly to fit your family’s needs.

No matter the size or layout, ADUs give families a way to stay connected, and with Moore Liberty Buildings’ expertise and guidance, creating the right space for your loved ones has never been easier.

To learn more about adding an ADU to your property, call 512-548-6474 or visit moorelibertybuildings.com.

Located halfway between US-183 and Ronald Reagan Blvd on Hwy 29 COME BROWSE OUR 2-ACRE SHOW ROOM!

512-548-6574 • office@moorelibertybuildings.com